Full Day East Tour by SUV (Geothermia and Furnas)

Exploring the stunning geothermal landscapes of São Miguel, Portugal’s Full Day East Tour by SUV promises an unforgettable day of discovery. Priced at just under $100 per person, this 8-hour adventure whisks travelers through lush valleys, past panoramic viewpoints, and into the historic Gorreana Tea Factory – Europe’s oldest tea plantation. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, visitors can expect to savor tea tastings, indulge in a local lunch, and enjoy the island’s rich cultural heritage. But what truly sets this tour apart is the opportunity to witness the raw power of nature, as the group delves into the geothermal wonders that have shaped São Miguel’s captivating landscape.

This experience made our list of the 4 Best Full-Day Tours In Ribeira Grande.

Key Points

• This full-day SUV tour explores São Miguel’s geothermal landscapes, including stops at Vale das Lombadas, Caldeiras de Ribeira Grande, and Gorreana Tea Factory.

• The tour is priced from $98.83 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pickup/drop-off options in Ponta Delgada, Ribeira Grande, and Capelas.

• Highlights include a visit to the lush Vale das Lombadas, panoramic views at Miradouro Caldeiras de Ribeira Grande, and a tour of the historic Gorreana Tea Factory.

• The tour is led by an experienced, multilingual guide and includes transportation, lunch, and tea tasting at the Gorreana or Porto Formoso tea factories.

• Flexibility is offered in the itinerary order, and entry fees to parks, thermal wells, and spas are not included in the tour price.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This full-day East Tour by SUV explores the stunning geothermal landscapes and cultural highlights of the Azorean island of São Miguel.

Priced from $98.83 per person, the tour lasts 8 hours and includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Pickup and drop-off locations are available in Ponta Delgada, Ribeira Grande, and Capelas.

The itinerary features must-see stops like Vale das Lombadas, Caldeiras de Ribeira Grande, Gorreana Tea Factory, and Furnas. Guests can also choose to visit Vila Franca do Campo.

The tour offers a comfort-focused experience with an experienced, multilingual guide, panoramic views, and a tea tasting at Gorreana or Porto Formoso.

Lunch in Furnas and free time for thermal spa visits are also included.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights include a visit to the lush Vale das Lombadas, known for its striking geothermal landscapes.

Travelers will also stop at the Miradouro Caldeiras de Ribeira Grande, offering panoramic views of the island’s volcanic craters.

The tour then heads to Monte Escuro, a scenic viewpoint, before visiting the historic Gorreana Tea Factory, the oldest tea plantation in Europe.

Furnas, a geothermal wonderland, is a key stop where guests can enjoy lunch and explore the steaming volcanic calderas.

Optional visits to Vila Franca do Campo and the picturesque seaside town of Ribeira Grande are also available.

Tour Experience

An experienced guide fluent in both English and Portuguese leads the tour, bringing extensive local knowledge to the experience.

The SUV tour offers panoramic views and access to alternative roads, providing a comfortable and intimate experience. Guests can choose between private or small group options, catered to their preferences.

The tour includes a tea tasting at the renowned Gorreana or Porto Formoso tea factories, allowing visitors to savor the local flavors.

Throughout the journey, the guide ensures a focus on comfort, sharing insights and facilitating immersive encounters with the region’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.

Detailed Itinerary

The tour begins with pickup from your accommodations around 8:30 AM, where you’ll embark on a journey through the volcanic landscapes of the East.

Over the next 3.5 hours, you’ll stop at:

• Black sand beaches and geothermal plants
• The Miradouro Caldeiras de Ribeira Grande, offering panoramic vistas
• The historic Gorreana Tea Factory for a tasting

After a break for lunch in Furnas, you’ll have free time to explore the thermal spas and surrounding area.

The return journey includes scenic viewpoints and cultural sites before you’re dropped off at your original pickup location around 5:30 PM.

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Inclusions and Additional Information

A multilingual guide with extensive local knowledge accompanies the tour, providing insights and commentary throughout the experience.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from the specified locations, as well as transportation, insurance, and fuel charges. Lunch is also provided during the tour.

However, entry or access tickets to the various parks, thermal wells, and spas aren’t included in the tour price. Guests should be aware that the itinerary is subject to change, and the order of the stops may vary depending on factors such as weather and traffic conditions.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

Pickup locations for the Full Day East Tour by SUV include Ponta Delgada, Ribeira Grande, and Capelas. Passengers can be picked up from their accommodations in these areas at the start of the tour.

At the end of the day, drop-off locations are the same:

• Capelas
• Ribeira Grande
• Ponta Delgada

This allows flexibility for travelers to be conveniently returned to their starting point.

The SUV tour offers a comfortable and personalized experience, with small groups or private options available. The pickup and drop-off services ensure a seamless start and finish to the full day adventure exploring the East of São Miguel Island.

Cancellation and Booking Policies

With a full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, the Full Day East Tour by SUV offers flexibility for travelers.

Booking the tour is also convenient, as it allows guests to reserve their spot without upfront payment. This "reserve now & pay later" option provides an easy way to secure a tour and pay later.

The tour’s cancellation policy and booking flexibility make it an attractive option for visitors looking to explore the island’s geothermal wonders and cultural landmarks without the risk of losing their reservation fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

The tour itinerary includes stops at various locations, and restroom facilities are typically available during these stops. However, it’s always a good idea for guests to plan accordingly and bring any necessary personal items.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The company encourages guests to pack a lunch or snacks to enjoy during the day. However, a lunch stop is included in the tour itinerary as well.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, the tour offers a private SUV option for a more personalized experience. Guests can choose a private tour with just their own group instead of joining a larger group tour.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Clothing for the Tour?

No special equipment or clothing is required for the tour. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate attire are recommended. The tour provider will handle all necessary arrangements, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable experience for participants.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to include additional sites. The tour company offers flexibility to accommodate personal preferences and interests, subject to availability and logistics. Customers can discuss their desired changes with the guide prior to the tour.

Recap

The Full Day East Tour by SUV offers an immersive exploration of São Miguel’s geothermal wonders. Priced at $98.83 per person, this 8-hour adventure showcases the island’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and rich history. With a knowledgeable guide, travelers experience scenic viewpoints, tea tastings, and a lunch break in the charming town of Furnas, providing a well-rounded and unforgettable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: